What must the owner do regarding lead paint in rental properties?

In the context of rental properties where lead paint is present, the owner is required to take certain actions to protect the health and safety of tenants, especially when it comes to children who are at higher risk for lead exposure. The correct answer, which states that the owner must remove lead paint at no additional cost to the tenant, aligns with these legal obligations.

Under Massachusetts law, landlords have a responsibility to ensure that their rental properties are safe and free from lead hazards. This includes the requirement to remediate lead paint if it is found within the property, particularly in units occupied by families with young children. The costs associated with the lead paint removal fall on the property owner, who cannot charge tenants for these necessary health and safety measures.

It is essential for landlords to understand that simply leaving lead paint untouched or advising tenants on how to handle it does not fulfill their obligations. These approaches do not adequately protect tenants from potential lead poisoning, which is a serious public health concern. Therefore, the proactive step of removing lead paint at no extra cost to tenants is not only a legal requirement but also a critical aspect of responsible property management.